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Sewing Machine Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Operate single needle sewing machines * You will fill pillow shells with fiber, place the pillow on ... Operator Requirements: * Must be able to stand or sit for extended periods during shift * Must be ...

Posted today

Upholstery Trainee

Philadelphia, PA

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Upholstery Trainee / Sewing Machine Operator Job Summary: This role is designed for a candidate with basic sewing or industrial machine experience who is interested in developing upholstery skills.

Upholstery Trainee

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Upholstery Trainee / Sewing Machine Operator Job Summary: This role is designed for a candidate with basic sewing or industrial machine experience who is interested in developing upholstery skills.

Machine Operator Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30a - 3:00p Payrate: $19/hr Temp to Perm for Machine Operator: * Operating multiple machines: Grinding machines, Lathe style machinery, and more * Read and ...

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Sewing Machine Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do sewing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewing machine operator in Pennsylvania is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sewing machine operator do?

As a sewing machine operator, your duties are to sew, join, gather, hem, and reinforce materials using an industrial sewing machine. You may select a pattern for sewing, determine what type of fabric to use, and adjust your equipment to ensure it is capable of creating the intended product. If you work as a seamstress on an industrial scale, your responsibilities are to produce a significant number of garments while adhering to your company's quality standards. If you work independently or at a tailor shop, you may sew original garments and perform alterations on existing clothes. In some positions, you may be asked to make decisions about sewing garments, such as what type of stitch to use, or help your company create a plan for other dressmakers to follow.

How much do sewing machine operators make in the US?

Sewing machine operators in the US earn a median hourly wage of around $14 to $16, with annual salaries approximately $29,000 to $33,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the tasks performed, and operators often need to be skilled in machine maintenance and sewing techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewing machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sewing Machine Operator, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and familiarity with textiles, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Proficiency in operating industrial sewing machines and following patterns or technical specifications is essential, and some roles may require experience with computerized sewing equipment. Dependability, time management, and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining production quality, meeting deadlines, and supporting smooth workflow in manufacturing environments.

Is it hard to be a sewing machine operator?

Being a sewing machine operator requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow patterns and instructions. The job often involves repetitive tasks and working with various fabrics and machines, but with training and experience, it can become easier. Some positions may require basic certifications or skills in machine maintenance.

What are some common challenges faced by sewing machine operators, and how can they be managed in the workplace?

Sewing Machine Operators often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality and speed under tight deadlines, managing repetitive motions that can lead to fatigue, and troubleshooting minor machine issues. Many workplaces address these challenges by providing ergonomic workstations, regular breaks, and training on machine maintenance and safety. Operators are also encouraged to communicate with supervisors and team members to address workflow bottlenecks and ensure smooth production processes.

What is a sewing machine operator?

Sewing Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate sewing machines to join, reinforce, decorate, or perform related sewing operations in the manufacturing of garments, textiles, or other fabric-based products. They follow patterns or instructions to stitch materials together, ensuring accuracy, quality, and consistency. Sewing Machine Operators may work in factories, workshops, or small businesses, and are responsible for maintaining their machines and troubleshooting minor issues. Attention to detail and good hand-eye coordination are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Sewing Machine Operator vs Textile Worker?

AspectSewing Machine OperatorTextile Worker
CredentialsNone specific, some may have vocational trainingVaries, often basic skills or certifications in textile manufacturing
Work EnvironmentFactories, sewing rooms, production linesTextile mills, fabric production facilities
Industry UsageApparel, upholstery, manufacturingTextile production, fabric manufacturing
Job FocusOperating sewing machines to assemble productsProcessing raw fibers into fabric or yarn

The main difference is that Sewing Machine Operators focus on sewing and assembling products, while Textile Workers are involved in fabric and fiber production. Both roles are essential in the textile industry but serve different stages of manufacturing.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What job categories do people searching Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Sewing Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Sewing Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sewing Machine Operator jobs in PA? For Sewing Machine Operator jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Sewing Machine Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,862 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Part Time Sewing Assistant (20 hours/wk; Flexible schedule Mon-Fri between 6:30AM & 3:00PM)

Pride Mobility

Duryea, PA โ€ข On-site

$17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Hourly Wage: $17.75
DESCRIPTION/JOB SUMMARY
Assist with cutting, sewing, assembling, inspecting, and repairing fabric and other soft-goods components using patterns, work instructions, and industrial sewing equipment
RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES
โ€ข Measure, mark, cut, sew, glue, and assemble fabric, foam, webbing, hook-and-loop material, fasteners, and other soft-goods materials
โ€ข Follow patterns, templates, drawings, sewing diagrams, work instructions, and quality requirements
โ€ข Operate industrial sewing machines and other approved shop equipment in accordance with training and manufacturer instructions
โ€ข Select and use the appropriate fabric, thread, fasteners, and related materials for each job
โ€ข Align notches, seams, and components while maintaining required stitch quality and preventing bunching, puckering, and other defects
โ€ข Assist with preparing or modifying basic patterns and templates under the direction of experienced team members
โ€ข Inspect completed work for proper dimensions, appearance, fit, workmanship, and compliance with requirements, and correct issues as directed
โ€ข Assemble, repair, and rework custom soft goods, prototypes, and special-order components
โ€ข Perform routine light maintenance on sewing equipment, including cleaning, oiling, changing needles, and making minor adjustments after training
โ€ข Label, organize, and maintain work-in-process materials, patterns, tools, supplies, and inventory
โ€ข Maintain a clean and organized work area and keep aisles and walkways clear
โ€ข Work effectively with Research &Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and other functional teams as needed
โ€ข Ensure all safety and security rules are strictly observed and any accidents, incidents or injuries are promptly reported to management
โ€ข Complete the annual CTPAT Security Training
โ€ข Focus on continuous improvement, and consistently demonstrate good business judgment
โ€ข Work effectively with all Pride departments to exceed internal and external expectations
โ€ข Assist with organization and cleaning of work area, keeping aisles and walkways clear at all times
โ€ข Pride retains the discretion to modify duties and/or assign other duties as necessary
REQUIRED SKILLS
โ€ข Must be a friendly team player, detail-oriented, and honest
Must have the ability to:
โ€ข Multi-task, problem-solve, and prioritize in a fast-paced working environment
โ€ข Read and comprehend work instructions
โ€ข Demonstrate basic sewing skills and the ability to learn and perform the position's essential functions through department training
โ€ข Use hands and fingers to handle fabric, thread, tools, fasteners, and small components with accuracy and control
โ€ข Perform repetitive hand, wrist, arm, and foot movements, including operating sewing-machine controls and foot pedals
โ€ข Maintain visual attention to inspect stitching, alignment, dimensions, materials, and finished work for defects
โ€ข Sit or stand for extended periods while performing sewing, cutting, assembly, and inspection tasks
โ€ข Safely use scissors, cutting tools, measuring devices, sewing equipment, and other approved shop tools
โ€ข Lift/Push/Pull up to 15 lbs.
Must have:
โ€ข Relentless drive to achieve advancement and continuous improvement
โ€ข A willingness to learn and/or adapt to new work methods
โ€ข Good verbal and written communication skills
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
โ€ข No formal industrial sewing experience is required
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
โ€ข At least 6 months of sewing, upholstery, alterations, soft goods fabrication, or related hands-on manufacturing experience preferred
โ€ข At least 6 months of experience operating an industrial sewing machine preferred
โ€ข Current or previous successful employment experience with Pride Mobility Products Corporation preferred
PREFERRED EDUCATION
โ€ข High School Diploma or GED preferred
โ€ข Vocational, technical, or other training in sewing, upholstery, textiles, alterations, or a related field preferred
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
โ€ข Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now, or in the future
DETAILS
โ€ข This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive
โ€ข In exceptional circumstances, some of the physical requirements of this position may be modified or eliminated as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act
Pride Mobility Productsยฎ/Quantum Rehabยฎ is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Pride Mobility Productsยฎ/Quantum Rehabยฎ is an Affirmative Action Employer with obligations under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person with a disability, a disabled veteran, or require a reasonable accommodation or assistance in completing an application for employment, please contact our human resources department at 1-800-800-8586 x1250.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.